This photo shows a policeman in front of the wreckage of a train full of holidaymakers bound for Scarborough which collided with a diesel engine and was derailed on Lower Briggate rail bridge. The tragedy claimed the life of one man with three others injured. This was Leeds in 1961, a year which featured the end of an era with the final performance at the Empire Theatre, success for Leeds RL and workers enjoying a well earned tea break. These photos are mainly a mix from the YEP archive and others published courtesy of West Yorkshire Archive Service, which collects and looks after the unique documentary heritage of the region dating from the 12th century to the present day - more than 800 years of local history. It also runs Catablogue, an online blog dedicated to preserving the past, serving the present and protecting the future. READ MORE: 33 closed Leeds pubs which will stir fond memories for drinkers LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook
7. Leeds RL
Match action from the clash between Leeds RL and Warrington at Headingley in October 1961. The photograph shows Leeds winger Ratcliffe scoring with Edwards of Warrington unable to stop him. The game finished 10-9 to Leeds. | West Yorkshire Archive Service Photo: West Yorkshire Archive Service
8. Leeds city centre
The Duke of Edinburgh walks with the Lord Mayor, Alderman P Woodward after opening the Martin Wing and Link Block Laboratories at Leeds General Infirmary in November 1961. A crowd had gathered to see the Duke who is seen talking to nursing staff. Accompanying the Duke of Edinburgh and the Mayor was the Lady Mayoress, Sir George Martin and Sir Charles Morris, Vice Chancellor of the University of Leeds. | West Yorkshire Archive Service Photo: West Yorkshire Archive Service
9. Morley
A fire engine and crew at work to extinguish the fire which spread through Morley Town Hall in August 1961 after starting in Albert Mills behind. The fire engine is parked in Wellington Street at the side of the Town hall, with Lloyd's Bank seen on the right. Despite the efforts of the fire crew the dome of the Town Hall suffered severe damage and had to be replaced. | David Atkinson Archive Photo: David Atkinson Archive
10. Armley
Whingate Garage on Tong Road pictured in August 1961. To the left is a clothing factory, business of T. Conaty. Whingate Garage is in the centre, owned by Arnold Stainsby, the premises include a car showroom. | West Yorkshire Archive Service Photo: West Yorkshire Archive Service
12. Hunslet
A long view of Albert Street pictured in August 1961. The numbers descend in an evens sequence towards the junction with Hazelhead Street. The property which faced on to Albury Road has been demolished and the derelict land is being used as a parked space for bicycles. On the left, part of Albury Place can be seen. | West Yorkshire Archive Service Photo: West Yorkshire Archive Service